The "special" pioneer arrangment had it's problems. A couple I know personally, absolutely busted a gut to "special" pioneer and when they finally got their wish they found it harder than regular. The cost of living was very high, the allowance they recieved didn't cover much, they lived for free in a sister's garage and relied heavily on handouts and freebies from the congregation. Once they realized how difficult it was their new "goal" became Bethel service.
Oh don't feel bad for them they got their "reward in full" in the form of theocratic celebrity status and many "privileges," and had no problem letting you know how "special" they were.
Good riddance to this unsustainable arrangement. It was cruel to all involved.